McLaren 650S GT3 is meaner, slipperier, and at Goodwood

Evolution is a good thing.

The 650S is basically a major revision of the older 12C; likewise, the GT3 version is basically a 12C GT3 version 1.5. What isn't broken isn't fixed, everything else has been given a revamp based on feedback from racers.

Based on what McLaren has changed, it seems like teams and drivers are going to be a lot happier with this car. It's designed to be cheaper to run—the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 derived from the road car and previous 12C GT3 carries over, but with longer overhaul intervals. The six-speed sequential box is all new, though. A wider track allows for larger tires, and new monoblock six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes improve braking performance.

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It looks badass, too. Bigger intakes optimize cooling and also make it look like a pissed-off regular 650S. The new body panels are also designed to be lighter and easier to repair in the pits. And drivers get better leg and headroom thanks to an improved roll cage as well as custom-molded seat inserts. You could serve dinner for 6 on that rear wing, too. Tablecloth not included.

12C GT3 owners will be offered an upgrade kit, because underneath the skin the cars use basically identical chassis—McLaren says it should give most 12C GT3s another three years of competitive use. If you're curious, an brand-new 650S GT3 will set you back £330,000 (around $560,000). The GT3 cars, new and old, compete in FIA Group GT3, including the Blancpain Endurance Series and the GT Asia series.